The Need for Weight Loss for Children

Children can also experience weight problems that require them to lose weight. In fact, in the U.S., one in five children are overweight. In order to determine if a child is overweight, a doctor uses both the height and weight of the child and a formula to see if the weight is more than is more than is normal for the height, if it is the child is overweight. Children who are considered to be overweight are at increased risk to become overweight adults and overweight adults are at risk for many diseases including cancer, diabetes and heart disease, and stroke.

Over the years there has been an alarming rise in obesity in both adults and children. Children who are obese have a higher risk for both high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Both high cholesterol and high blood pressure puts these children at risk for heart disease. Children that are obese are also at risk for sleep apnea, which can lead to learning and memory problems. Obese children can also suffer from asthma, liver disease, and orthopedic problems.

There are many reasons why children become overweight. The most common reasons for becoming overweight are lack of physical activities, poor eating habits, or medical problems such as endocrine disorder. A doctor can perform a physical exam and also take some blood tests to rule out genetic or medical reasons for being overweight.

If a child with a weight problem has brothers, sisters, or parents that are overweight there just may be genetic factors for the child being overweight. There are also shared family habits that can lead to a child being overweight like too much fast-food restaurant eating, or eating in front of the TV or computer. Families can also lead sedentary lifestyles that contribute to weight gain. If you feel that your child is obese or overweight and others in the family are overweight genetics or family habits may be to blame. Your child’s doctor will be able to help determine if your child is overweight or obese and recommend treatment.

What to do if you think your child is overweight or obese?

Talk to your child’s doctor to find out if the child does have a weight problem

Be supportive of your child by helping them to express feelings about their body and their weight. Accept your child’s weight and body image. Talk to your child about weight management, lifestyle choices that contribute to weight gain and making smarter food choices. It is also important to be supportive about exercise.

Parents can also make sure that the family starts to develop healthier eating and exercise habits.

The family can participate in physical activities that will get the kids up and moving such as going hiking as a family, swimming together, biking, dancing or bowling together. The parents can set a good example for exercising that the kids can then follow.